Aerial Bunched Cables (ABC)

Aerial Bunched Cables (ABC) represent a modern and efficient method of power distribution, widely adopted by electricity boards and utility providers for delivering electricity directly to consumers.

This system offers enhanced safety, improved reliability, and reduced power losses compared to conventional overhead distribution lines. Additionally, it proves to be highly economical due to lower installation, maintenance, and operational costs.

ABC systems are especially suitable for rural electrification and are highly effective in challenging environments such as hilly terrains, forest regions, coastal areas, and congested urban locations with narrow streets. In such areas, where installing traditional overhead lines or underground cables is either difficult or expensive, ABC provides an ideal alternative.

The cable consists of aluminium conductors insulated with XLPE (Cross-Linked Polyethylene) or HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene). These insulated conductors are twisted together around a bare messenger wire, which acts as a support. The entire assembly is directly installed on distribution poles or towers.

Since the cables are exposed to environmental conditions, including sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the insulation is specially designed to be UV-resistant. The XLPE insulation, typically black in color, is stabilized to prevent degradation over time, ensuring long-term durability.